Poland Mini Horse ‘Jesse’ Brightens Day For The Residence At McCormick’s Creek

Cecilia Trueblood Is Simply Looking For Smiles For Seniors

by Michael Stanley Staff Writer

Ruth Elmore, a resident at The Residence at McCormick’s Creek, shares a hug with “Jesse” the miniature horse during a recent visit. “Jesse” provided many laughs and smiles while he strutted up and down the hallways. (Staff Photo) Cecilia Trueblood of Poland is helping area senior citizens break the monotony at local nursing homes and recently helped bring back some fond memories for those at The Residence at McCormick’s Creek near Spencer. This past Wednesday afternoon, Trueblood and one of her several miniature horses, “Jesse,” dressed as Jesse James, made their rounds through the halls and into the rooms of residents.

“We started doing this about 10 or 12 years ago, I had another little miniature that I took around to the nursing homes. For some people, it brings back so many memories for them, because they used to have horses and animals,” Trueblood said. “Being around a loving animal and being able to share that affection with an animal is very therapeutic. They’ve shown that people with pets live longer. (Jesse’s) been so good about it, he’s been very easy to take around. He lets people pet him without any problems.”

Wayne Schopmeyer, a resident at The Residence at McCormick’s Creek, admires a dressed-up “Jesse,” a miniature horse belonging to Cecilia Trueblood. Executive Director Dan Kern is shown in the background as he petted “Jesse.” (Staff Photo) Trueblood currently works with the Area 10 Agency on Aging through its Caring Companions program, a visiting program for senior citizens.

“We have a growing population of seniors and it can be kind of lonely and isolated sometimes,” Trueblood said. “For many of them, their families aren’t around to visit them, so this kind of brightens their day. When you don’t feel well all day long, the day can kind of drag on. If we can brighten someone’s day, that’s what I want to do.”

Poland’s Cecilia Trueblood (left) introduces “Jesse” to The Residence at McCormick’s Creek resident Betty Brinson (seated) and visiting friends, Karla Mitchell, Betty Cullison and Bea Franklin. (Staff Photo) Trueblood and her husband, John, are members of St. Jude Catholic Church in Spencer. While Cecilia tends to the horses, John spends his time tending to hay, mending fence and buildings. The Truebloods always have an updated health certificate from their veterinarian.

“People have asked me to take horses when they couldn’t take care of them anymore, so I do,” Trueblood mentioned. “I’ve got five big horses and seven minis; I just can’t take care of any more. We’ve always liked animals, and you can always see how people love them. So it’s fun to share.”